Parenting - 5 Essential Discipline Rules

In the mind of a child, the word “Discipline” spells a child's worst nightmare and mum and dad's greatest pleasure! Little do our kids realize that the definition of discipline is actually to punish in a way that brings about good behaviour. Discipline is not a cruel thing and doesn't have to be your child's worst nightmare. If done correctly, discipline could actually be greatly appreciated by your child once you explain what it's really about, which is teaching, and not punishing. As parents, it's imperative we realize the true meaning of discipline so that we can discipline our children correctly.

Here are some essential rules to live by when it comes to disciplining your child:

1. Keep calm!

If your child seems to be acting up for some reason, always try to find out why. Do not allow yourself to become infuriated because of the embarrassment or disrespect that results from your child's inappropriate behaviour. Yelling at children only produces fear and your child is unlikely to have remembered what you reprimanded them for, but more of how you did so. Maintaining composure is absolutely vital!

2. Know what you want to achieve

Discipline isn't effective when it's a matter of releasing your own frustration. Think about what you really want to achieve in the situation. As parents, we should want our kids to learn a lesson from their discipline experience that will teach them to essentially become the best version of themselves that they could possibly be.

3. Comfort and connect on an emotional level

If your child has turned into an emotional wreck and isreacting with tears or symptoms of depression, you have got to handle the situation very sensitively. By comforting your distressed child, he or she will also learn how to be empathic. You must, however, first connect with them on an emotional level, by making physical contact and comforting the child with a hug or even just by holding their hands very gently. When a child finds comfort, he or she will find calm. Once they're calmer, you can help them find a solution to the problem.

4. Never isolate or physically punish

As we mentioned earlier, discipline is about teaching and not punishing, and we absolutely reprimand physical punishment to children! Physical punishment does not help your child to learn, and you will not be teaching them a lesson. Instead, you will create a fearful child. Fear is the reason why there are so many discouraged and isolated kids out there. The last thing you want to do is isolate your child through punishment. Communication is a vital aspect between parents and their children, especially when tough issues arise. You want your children to express their emotions through communication. Parents should always socialize with their children.

5. Respect is earned, not demanded

There is a common saying; "Respect is earned", and it is indeed easy to demand respect but we should work on earning it. As parents, earning respect doesn't mean spoiling your child in order to make them like you. Earning your child's respect begins with leading by example, or in other words, practising what you preach. In order for your kids to show you respect, you've got to show them respect too. Don't just preach it, apply it. Lead by example. Act like the person you'd like them to be by engaging with them, displaying positive qualities like kindness, honesty and dedication.

 

Discipline is taught, and not punished. Keep calm, know what you want to achieve, comfort and connect with your child on an emotional level, never isolate or physically punish your child, and earn your child's respect, let them know that by them respecting you they have earned yours. This is exactly how we handle discipline at Sugar Bay, and this is how all our adventures with our Sugar Babies turn out to be pleasant, exciting, and unforgettable… With the correct principles of Discipline.

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